You always, I think, debate with yourself about whether or not you made the right decision. And you have to then give the person that you’re working for - in my instance, the president - your best judgment based on your understanding of the facts, but also the calculus you use to make a determination about what’s the best way to go forward.

Al-Qa'ida does not follow a traditional command structure, wear uniforms, carry its arms openly, or mass its troops at the borders of the nations it attacks. Nonetheless, it possesses the demonstrated capability to strike with little notice and cause significant civilian or military casualties.

I'm not ideological. I think sometimes when people are ideological, the world's a lot easier. Because it falls into either right or wrong, or black or white, or whatever. To me, I'm still trying to figure out a lot of things.

Throughout my career, I had the great fortune to experience firsthand as well as to witness what it means to be a CIA officer.

I have a reputation for speaking my mind. I like to think my candor and bluntness will give you the answers.

Poverty does not cause violence and terrorism. Lack of education does not cause terrorism.

Al-Qa'ida is the antithesis of the peace, tolerance and humanity that is at the heart of Islam.